Don’t Insult Our Friends

And Neighbors

To the Editor:

I was tempted to address this letter to the “Mr Bauer” referred to and quoted in The Bee as Toll Brothers’ representative. He was pictured tossing Al Penovi’s porcelain into a dumpster provided by Toll Brothers. The sign at the edge of the property we knew for so many years and owned by a man who is well respected by all who know him stated that the Toll Brothers was “cleaning up” the property at their own labor and expense.

Mr Bauer had the audacity to say, “We don’t just build homes — we try to leave our mark and help the community. We do this a lot. We are a community that cares about communities. We have a lot of people who are bringing their friends in to see their new home. They love Sandy Hook Center — they just rave about it but this” — he said gesturing toward Al’s “has been a concern.”

For whom has it been a concern? How insulting?

I feel sorry for any newcomers to our town who do not realize how much a part of Sandy Hook Al Penovi and his business has been for many, many years. His business was very much appreciated and he was, is, and always will be our friend.

Who else — what else — will Toll Brothers want to change about our town? How can they be so presumptuous as to assume that we should be grateful (?) that our friends and neighbors be made presentable so that Toll Brothers can sell houses and condos? Who among us will be deemed expendable or an eyesore next by Mr Bauer and Toll Brothers? Should we really be pleased that they “care” or should we hope that the Toll Brothers move to an area more pleasing to them and leave us alone and do not insult our friends and neighbors or ourselves?

Betty Lou Osborne

8 Zoar Road, Sandy Hook                                                April 16, 2008